In the intricate world of search engine optimization (SEO), backlinks often take center stage. However, not all backlinks are created equal, and understanding their types is essential for crafting a successful SEO strategy. One type of backlink you’ll often come across is the no follow link.
But what are no follow links, and how do they impact your website’s SEO? In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll explore the concept of no follow links, their purpose, and when to use them effectively.
What Are No Follow Links?
A no follow link is a type of hyperlink that includes a special attribute (rel=’nofollow’) in its HTML code. This attribute tells search engines not to pass “link juice” or SEO value to the linked page.
In simpler terms, a no follow link prevents search engines from considering the link as an endorsement of the linked website. While users can click on these links to navigate to another page, search engines won’t count them as a ranking signal.
Example:
A no follow link looks like this in HTML:
<a href=’https://example.com’ rel=’nofollow’>Visit Example</a>
Why Were No Follow Links Created?
Google introduced the no follow attribute in 2005 to combat spam and manipulation in SEO. At the time, unscrupulous practices like comment spam and paid link schemes were rampant. The no follow attribute gave website owners a way to link to other sites without endorsing them or risking penalties from Google.
The Purpose of No Follow Links
Understanding what are no follow links also means understanding their purpose in the SEO ecosystem. Here’s why no follow links are important:
1. Prevent Spam
No follow links are often used in blog comments, forums, and user-generated content to discourage spammy or irrelevant links.
2. Comply with Google Guidelines
Paid or sponsored links must include the no follow attribute to comply with Google’s policies, ensuring transparency and avoiding penalties.
3. Maintain Link Equity
By using no follow links for less relevant pages, you can focus your site’s link equity on the pages that matter most.
Do No Follow Links Affect SEO?
While no follow links don’t pass link juice directly, they can still benefit your website in other ways:
1. Drive Traffic
Even without SEO value, no follow links can generate referral traffic if they’re placed on high-traffic or authoritative sites.
2. Build Brand Awareness
Being featured on reputable platforms (even with no follow links) can enhance your brand’s visibility and credibility.
3. Diversity in Link Profile
A natural backlink profile includes a mix of follow and no follow links. A heavy imbalance can raise red flags for search engines.
When Should You Use No Follow Links?
Knowing what are no follow links is one thing; knowing when to use them is another. Here are some common scenarios where no follow links are ideal:
1. Sponsored or Paid Content
Any paid links or advertisements must be marked as no follow to comply with search engine guidelines.
2. User-Generated Content
Links in blog comments, forums, or guest posts should be no follow to prevent spam and maintain site integrity.
3. Low-Quality or Irrelevant Links
If you need to link to a low-quality or unrelated site, use a no follow attribute to avoid passing SEO value.
4. Affiliate Links
Mark affiliate links as no follow to ensure transparency and avoid SEO penalties.
How to Create a No Follow Link
Creating a no follow link is as simple as adding the rel=’nofollow’ attribute to your HTML code. Here’s how it works:
- Navigate to the hyperlink you want to make no follow.
- Add the no follow attribute to the code.
Example: - Save and update your page.
Most CMS platforms like WordPress have plugins or built-in features that make adding no follow attributes easy.
Tools to Manage No Follow Links
To manage and monitor no follow links on your site, consider using these tools:
- Ahrefs: Analyze your backlink profile to identify follow and no follow links.
- SEMrush: Offers detailed reports on your site’s backlinks, including no follow attributes.
- Google Search Console: Provides insights into the types of links pointing to your site.
Tips for Using No Follow Links Strategically
- Balance Your Backlink Profile
Ensure a mix of follow and no follow links to maintain a natural and diverse link profile. - Focus on Traffic
Don’t dismiss no follow links solely because they don’t pass SEO value. They can still drive significant referral traffic. - Stay Compliant
Always use no follow attributes for paid or affiliate links to adhere to search engine guidelines. - Monitor Regularly
Use tools to keep track of your no follow links and ensure they’re being used appropriately.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what are no follow links is a crucial step in mastering your SEO strategy. While these links don’t directly impact rankings, they play an essential role in maintaining link equity, preventing spam, and driving referral traffic.
By using no follow links strategically, you can build a balanced, compliant, and effective link profile that supports your website’s long-term success.
Ready to learn more about backlinks? Check out our detailed guide on follow links vs. no follow links to enhance your SEO expertise further!
